Strategic Communications Lead (0.8 FTE)

The Australian Services Union (ASU) is seeking an experienced, values‑driven Strategic Communications Lead to help amplify the voices of workers who keep our communities running. This is a rare opportunity to shape communications that make a real difference—supporting member organising, major campaigns, and sector‑wide advocacy across local government, water, energy, community services and more. 

About Us 

The ASU is one of Australia’s largest and most progressive unions, advocating for fairness, equity, and dignity in the workplace. Our Victorian and Tasmanian Branch is deeply committed to supporting members, building strong workplace representation, and driving campaigns that improve working lives. 

The ASU is an organising union that protects and improves our members’ working lives. Our union is growing, using strategies to bring workers together to collectively stand to improve wages and conditions. Delegate development is central to everything we do as we see this as fundamental to continuing to grow and build power as a union.   

Your Impact 

As the Strategic Communications Lead, you’ll guide a small and talented team to deliver clear, consistent and impactful communications aligned with our Strategic Plan. You’ll lead our media presence, develop compelling content and campaign materials, and provide trusted advice to support major organising, bargaining and advocacy work. Your work will help grow worker power, protect rights, and strengthen essential public and community services. 

We’re looking for someone who brings strategic insight, excellent writing and content expertise, sound judgement, and experience leading a small team. You’ll thrive in a fast‑paced, purpose‑driven environment where integrity, collaboration and member voice are at the centre of everything we do. 

This role is perfect for someone who wants their communications leadership to create real social impact. 

What You’ll Do 

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic communication plans 

• Guide messaging across campaigns, organising, advocacy and member engagement 

• Coordinate media activity with an external agency and support spokespeople 

• Oversee high‑quality digital, print and campaign content 

• Strengthen internal communications for staff, delegates and members 

• Manage and mentor a small Communications Team 

• Provide expert strategic advice to union leadership 

About you 

• Commitment to union values and social justice 

• 5–7+ years in communications, PR, journalism or strategic comms 

• Proven experience delivering communication strategies that drive engagement 

• Strong writing, editing and content production skills across formats 

• Experience leading or mentoring a small team 

• Sound judgement, discretion and stakeholder management abilities 

• Familiarity with key digital and design tools 

Why work with ASU? 

• Help improve the working lives of tens of thousands of people 

• Join a progressive, purpose‑driven and supportive team 

• Hybrid and flexible work options 

We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ people, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

Note: Pay scale is for a full time equivalent role. This is a 0.8 FTE position- salary is paid pro rata based on the FTE rate.

How to Apply  

Applications close 5.00pm, 29th March 2026 and should be addressed to:  

Phillipa Balk 

ASU Assistant Branch Secretary  

For further information, please contact the Executive Assistant at tlang@asuvictas.com.au